TV, radio services codes revised

The revised Television & Radio Codes of Practice (CoPs) took effect upon gazettal today, introducing specific requirements for the implementation of and giving effect to the National Security Law, the Communications Authority announced.

The authority said the introduction of the specific requirements in the CoPs aims to clearly spell out the responsibility of the broadcasting industry in safeguarding national security, providing the licensees with a better understanding of the security law requirements to ensure they abide by the law in the provision of broadcasting services.

The revision to the CoPs also includes the relaxation of regulatory requirements. The authority noted that the revisions are in line with the development of society and the market, providing a more flexible operating environment for the broadcasting industry and striking a balance between facilitating the licensees’ operation and protecting the community’s interests.

The relaxations also help licensees strengthen their financial position by creating new revenue-generating channels so as to achieve sustainable development, it added.

The authority embarked on a review of the CoPs upon completion of the mid-term review of the free TV and sound broadcasting licences in February and conducted a consultation exercise from July 17 to August 16.

The proposed revisions to the CoPs have received majority support from the public and the broadcasting licensees, the authority said.